With the winter and flu season upon us, it’s important to maintain good healthy habits. Not only is being sick miserable, but staying healthy helps to avoid extra medical costs and missed work (which can save you some money in the long run).
While some of the following tips may seem like common sense, we dive into the medical reasons as to why they are so important. Also, while we can’t prevent all risks of disease, we can eliminate exposure to many of them.
This probably seems like common sense. However, we cannot understate the value of hand washing. It is one of the top ways to prevent getting sick and spreading illness. In fact, according to the CDC, 30% of diarrhea-related illnesses and about 20% of respiratory infections (such as colds) can be prevented by handwashing.
Here are some hand washing tips: 1) always wash after using the restroom, 2) always wash before eating, 3) always wash after handling raw meat, and 4) wash if you are sneezing and coughing. When you wash your hands, make sure to use soup. Using soap when hand washing removes germs more effectively than just washing with water.
While you may be away of the germs lurking in the bathroom at work, did you know that your desk and computer/keyboard can harbor more germs than a toilet? You may want to think twice about eating at your desk! Sanitizing your desk and workspace regularly, especially before eating (if you must eat there) can help reduce your risk of these germs.
The break room and office kitchens are another “germy” spot. In fact, a study by the University of Arizona found that where people prepare and eat their lunches at work is one of the hottest spots in a workplace for bacteria. Microwave handles, refrigerator doors, and sinks were top spots for germs.
It’s easy to get stressed out by work. But, did you know that chronic stress can lead to illness? Researchers have found that stress weakens our immune systems. In fact, one study found that the immunity of medical students went down every year during the 3-day time period of their exams. Another study found that students who seriously practiced relaxation training during the exam period actually had better immune function than those that didn’t practice it all or didn’t take the relaxation training seriously.
Good ways to manage stress include physical activity (such as walking or running), meditation, reading, spending time with loved ones, going to the spa, getting a message, and seeking out therapy. Everyone is different, so find what works best for you.
Apex Medical Center, a Las Vegas and Henderson pain management clinic, is here to help you stay healthy and beat any sickness you pick up from work or home. We offer both primary care and pain management services to the Henderson and Las Vegas area. We have 3 convenient locations, so call today or book online!
